SS intgtd- Ayre; YBA; Sugden; Bel Canto; Accphse ?


New baby in house so tubes on main floor might be problematic- need simplicity for the television/'B' system- therefore thinking solid state integrated. Looking for a recommendation and/or comparison of SS integrated amps at ~ $2.5k max used.

Speakers are Coincident Victory, very revealing with tightly damped bass and a ribbon tweeter- large room. Looking for the most 'full-bodied' natural sound yet with excellent micro-dynamic detail retrieval as well. Wish list would include a remote plus one balanced input for a dac, plus very well-built power supply and well-executed yet simple circuit design. Here's a few options that spring to mind:

Ayre AX-7e
YBA Passion Integre
Bel Canto Evo2i Gen II
Sugden A21e
Blue Circle NSCS
Accuphase E-***??? (anyone heard the E-407?)

most interested in a comparison of the Ayre and YBA, as have heard great things about both.
sutts

Showing 2 responses by greenman

I'm a fan of the Bryston B-60 but it is playing well out of its depth relative to Ayre AX-7e or the Bel Canto eVo 2i II. I have heard the Sugden but not in A-B situations and I haven't heard the rest of your list at all. You might want to also check out the 47 Labs Gaincard (no remote, no balanced input) which is excellent in some applications (no comment on why it costs what it does) or the Lavardin which I have not heard but hear interesting things about.
I'm not familiar with your specific speakers although I've found some Coincidents I've heard on the bright side even with tubes.
I'm afraid that you you already have a reasonable list to work from and that further culling is going to come down to your ears. Good luck.
I have heard the Ayre V5 and the Sonic Frontiers SL3 but not together. I think it has the makings of a great match, probably many steps above the AX7. I think very highly of both pieces
Have you called Bel Canto to ask about a cage for the SET40i? I'm fairly certain there was an optional cover. Whether they still have any in inventory may be another matter.
Without a direct A-B I'm guessing, but I think a Sugden A21 may lack resolution and bass drive relative to an AX7e or eVo2i II. The Sugden is, however, very smooth and musical.